Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, Mt Cook - New Zealand Luxury Travel

Soak in the Views of Lake Pūkaki

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is set in a forest wilderness, nestled between the turquoise blue waters of Lake Pūkaki and the majestic Ben Ōhau ranges. It is right on the doorstep of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park located in the beautiful and unique Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area.

Your Stay

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is a luxury lodge that offers private villas inspired by European farmhouse architecture, featuring thick stone walls, soaring wooden ceilings, and Italian sandstone floors. The villas boast sweeping uninterrupted views of Lake Pukaki and Aoraki/Mount Cook or the tranquil Ben Ohau Ranges. Private hot tubs are available to guests for ultimate relaxation along with a tennis court, 5 km of walking tracks and a range of memorable activities.

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Your Experiences

You can choose from a variety of activities such as hiking, skiing, fishing, heli-skiing, scenic flights, and more, or simply unwind in the comfort and privacy of your own alpine retreat. Located within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, it offers incredible stargazing at the Pukaki Observatory. Guests can also enjoy tennis, cycling, and hiking while exploring the beautiful natural surroundings that make this destination truly unforgettable.

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Dining

Guests can enjoy fine dining at The Moraine Lodge Restaurant, located on the property. The restaurant emphasizes the fresh, seasonal flavors of the region, using produce from its on-site garden and sourcing other ingredients locally. With a focus on creativity and innovation, each dish is thoughtfully prepared to reflect the surrounding landscape. The Moraine Lodge Restaurant offers more than a meal—it provides a culinary experience that tells a story through flavor, technique, and a deep sense of place.

Your Arrival

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is ideally situated, approximately a 3-hour drive from Queenstown, 15 minutes from Twizel, and 45 minutes from Lake Tekapo. For a more exclusive and seamless arrival, guests can opt for a direct helicopter transfer to the retreat’s private on-site helipads, landing right at their villa doorstep. Helicopter flights can be arranged from Queenstown Airport (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes) or Christchurch Airport (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes), providing a scenic and unparalleled travel experience.

Pukaki Observatory Stargazing

Enjoy an exclusive Billion Star Dining experience at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. Begin with a refined meal at The Moraine Restaurant before heading to the private Pukaki Observatory. Featuring a retractable roof and 9-inch reflector telescope, it offers an unforgettable stargazing experience. Guided by an expert astronomer and accompanied by a glass of wine from the adjoining cellar, you may even witness the magical glow of the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis).

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat